FANCY spoiling someone special next month? You could do worse than bid to win a luxury hamper being auctioned by Swindon Women’s Aid.

With Valentine’s just around the corner on February 14 you could be mistaken for thinking that romance is all about walks in the park, kissing in the back row of the cinema or a box of chocolates.

But for 25 per cent of girls and 18 per cent of boys aged 16 to 25, it is unfortunately a season of fear and unhappiness, and marks a spiked period of domestic abuse.

Swindon Women’s Aid - which runs the Women’s Refuge and work to put an end to domestic violence - is raising awareness of the dangers Valentine’s Day can pose for some young people by running an online auction for a special hamper.

So far, the hamper of goodies is worth around £100, with new prizes added to the luxury basket each week, with treats including flowers, make up and other pampering goodies.

Jo Heaven, business development manager at Swindon Women’s Aid, said the initiative was timed to coincide with a difficult time for many suffering domestic abuse.

“Valentine’s Day can be a difficult time for victims of domestic abuse,” she said.

“Derogatory remarks and moody silences are replaced with threats, assault and rape with many young people feeling this is a ‘normal relationship’ as it’s what they have witnessed with their own parents, within their peer groups or from the media.

“Swindon Women’s Aid has recognised this under reported problems and, through a grant from the Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon in 2013, has been able to employ a dedicated Young Persons Independent Domestic Violence Advisor who works with the highest risk cases.”

Bids will close on February 13 in time for Valentine’s Day. To find out more or to place your bids, visit www.facebook.com/SwindonWomensAid

If you are affected by domestic violence please contact Swindon Women’s Aid on 01793 610610 or for more information visit www.swindonwomensaid.org